New Delhi: Heatwave conditions in several parts of India are leading to a 'huge' uptick in demand for cooler destinations such as Dehradun, Munnar, Kodaikanal, Manali and Mussoorie, pushing advance bookings for hotels and alternative accommodation providers. Travel firms said an early onset of adverse conditions has also led to people pushing summer holidays ahead of the usual school break schedule.
Anil Kalsi, board member, Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH) said the industry body is expecting a 'very healthy' growth in domestic tourism this summer season. "Hot weather has led to a huge demand in queries for cooler hill stations. Munnar in Kerala has seen a jump in queries, and it is being favoured by those who were planning trips abroad," said Kalsi. "Closer to Delhi, we hear people are travelling in droves to destinations such as Mussoorie," he added.
Also Read: India’s heat wave creates new inflation risks after oil surge
Vibhas Prasad, director, Leisure Hotels, said leisure destinations are witnessing early surge in demand, with bookings rising from 2,800 to 4,000 room nights week-on-week. Prasad said growth is visible across hill and riverfront escapes and at chain's assets like The Naini Retreat, Nainital, Aloha On The Ganges in Rishikesh and The Belvedere in Mcleodganj.
Hotel rates for some branded premium hotels in destinations such as Shimla and Dehradun are hovering around ₹16,000-₹24,000 per night for the upcoming weekend.
Also Read: CII, NHAI push flexible hours as heatwave intensifies in India
The summer travel season has started earlier this year, said Pranav Dangi, CEO of Hosteller. "In South India, destinations such as Ooty are seeing a 15% growth in bookings compared to last year. In North region, destinations such as Musoorie have recorded a 10% growth in bookings compared to last year," said Dangi.
